event at the McWane Science Center. The organization has been fostering community-changing conversations over great meals since 2009. Its mission is to "create positive change by encouraging dialogue among diverse people."

Tuesday night's event was the final meeting of 2012 and the discussion focused on how the organization could improve next year. As I listened to my tablemates chat, while silently gumming down purple mashed potatoes, I realized that their ideas for 2013 could not only benefit the BKT organization, but our community at large.

Great conversation was accompanied by a delicious meal. Thanks to my dental work, I had a tough time with the chicken. (Edward Bowser/The Birmingham News)

Allow me to share a few responses to questions that were raised. I'm sure some of them will hit home in our attempt to uplift our own communities.

What's the best way to reach new people to spread our message?

Of course, there are the easy answers - fliers, email lists, creating a stronger social media presence, etc. - but Janet Holloway offered a more practical answer. "Take the conversation to other communities. Don't get stuck in your box." Meeting at cool places like The Birmingham Zoo and McWane Center can be fun, but venturing out and meeting in areas of need will make an even bigger impact. It's much easier to help an ailing community when you're actually there.

How are you inspired to take action after these discussions?

It's so easy to brainstorm about great ideas, nod accordingly, then hop in your car and drive off, leaving all those ideas to waste away on the asphalt. Making a change means taking ownership. Barbara Ramsey was so inspired by a BKT discussion a few years ago that she began volunteering for the Beginning Bridge Community Development Corporation, which teaches life skills and supports ex-offenders and their families. Talking is great but she wasn't afraid to take action.

Do discussions stay on topic?

Of course they don't. Join my family for Thanksgiving and listen to the conversation jump from Crock-Pots to burial plots. Amid the chaos, however, there are always gems to be found. Let the conversation evolve and you could stumble upon great insight.

How do we keep conversations going?

Ever have a great conversation with someone only to walk away and never see them again? There's really no excuse for that in today's socially connected world. Keeping in touch is the only way to build relationships and foster accountability. Reach out, then follow up. And, of course, we have to act on those great ideas we shared. Words ring hollow if there is no action behind them. "Let's use our hands instead of our mouths," Holloway said.

At the beginning of the night, Sandy Osbourne chatted with us about how her family shuns her green potato salad. That hasn't slowed her culinary creativity and serves as a metaphor for pursuing your ideas. "Sometimes people can't see your vision," she said.

Commit to your ideas and press ahead, despite naysayers. We all could benefit from that dedication. And I could benefit from that potato salad. I bet it's easy to chew.

Edward Bowser is a community engagement specialist for AL.com and The Birmingham News. He's always eager for conversation.